A Night of Music, Stories, and Star-Studded Guests
Sultry cocktails and hors d’oeuvres set the tone at Azur on Monarch in Sandton as DJ Sobzeen launched his debut album iThemba Lam. The intimate evening, hosted by Yano Lyrics presenter Mars, drew notable figures including Vusi Nova, Amapiano culture curator Thulani Way, Big Brother star Lerato Modise, radio host Kamo Moth, and Pastor Prophet Mboro, who arrived with five bodyguards in tow.
From Behind-the-Scenes Genius to Centre Stage
Known for producing and co-creating major Amapiano hits such as Mastokose, Selimathunzi, Kunzima, Mali, and Sandrasami, Sobzeen – real name Zakhele Mbuyisa – spent years ghost-producing and writing without credit. Now, he steps into the spotlight with an 11-track body of work he describes as “Gospel-Piano” or “Hope Amapiano.”
The Meaning Behind iThemba Lam
The title translates to “My Hope” and symbolises Sobzeen’s belief that music is his only path – with no plan B.
“If you have a plan B, it means you doubt your first choice,”
he said.
“This album is spiritual and wholesome… it’s for the mature ear but also the young person.”
Themes of Perseverance and Faith
iThemba Lam explores resilience, exploitation in the music industry, and the journey of owning one’s narrative. Sobzeen openly reflects on past experiences where he contributed to platinum hits without compensation, stating:
“This chain represents every contract that restricted me and each credit I was denied. The cross symbolizes the hope that sustained me.”
The Artwork’s Symbolism
- Black Background – Isolation and the unseen influence behind major successes
- Chains & Cross – The struggle of industry constraints and enduring faith
- Puff Hoodie – A blend of street culture and sacred identity
Collaboration and Sound
The project features collaborations with Pale Moloi, Russell Zuma, Youme, Stu, Deep London, Zee_nhle, Casey Ntuli, Dr Thulz, Mr Maker, DJ Stokie, Mashudu, BusiGold, Nele SA, Msongi, Happy Jazzman, and Gontse Levati. Sobzeen’s signature sound blends melodic, emotive progressions with the dance energy of Amapiano.
Tracklist Highlights
- Izono – Sobzeen x Pale Moloi ft Msongi
- Somandla – Sobzeen x Msongi ft Nele SA
- Sthandwa Sami – Sobzeen x Mashudu x Happy Jazzman ft Gontse Levati
- iThemba Lami – Sobzeen x BusiGold x Stu ft Dr Thulz
- Mang’Dakiwe – Sobzeen x DJ Stokie ft Mr Maker
- Imana – Sobzeen x Deep London ft Casey Ntuli & Pale Moloi
Looking Ahead
Sobzeen hopes iThemba Lam will not only introduce the world to his authentic sound but also secure international performance opportunities. His message to fans is simple:
“Continue supporting the change. This is our sound, our roots – and we must be proud of it.”
